Stress Less

9

DSU have put together this series of pages to help you stress less during your exams

 

 Stress Less | Revision | Exams | Results | Relaxation | Stuff To Do | Support

 

 

Mitigating Circumstances

If you feel any exams or summative work has been affected by factors outside of your control the university needs to know to make sure you are not unfairly disadvantaged. To do this fill out a mitigating circumstances form, you may wish to seek the help of your College Senior Tutor.

 

Top tips to stress...less

1. Believe in yourself
You wouldn't have been given a place on the course if you didn't have the ability to do it. Therefore, if you prepare for the exams properly you should do fine, meaning that there is no need to worry excessively.

2. Don't try to be perfect

It's great to succeed and reach for the stars. But keep things in balance. If you think that "anything less than A+ means I've failed" then you are creating mountains of unnecessary stress for yourself. Aim to do your best but recognise that none of us can be perfect all of the time.

3. Take steps to overcome problems
If you find you don't understand some of your course material, getting stressed out won't help. Instead, take action to address the problem directly by seeing your course tutor or getting help from your class mates.

4. Don't keep things bottled up
Confiding in someone you trust and who will be supportive is a great way of alleviating stress and worry. Also use the support services in the University available to you. A list on contact details is under 'Sources of Support'.

5. Keep things in perspective
The exams might seem like the most crucial thing right now, but in the grander scheme of your whole life they are only a small part.

6. Leave plenty of time to revise
Don't get into a situation of having to do last minute cramming. This approach will help to boost your confidence and reduce any pre-exam stress as you know you have prepared well.

7. Take breaks
As soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration, take a short break. Most people need breaks every 45 minutes. You will then come back to your revision refreshed.

8. Careful with the Caffeine
Don't drink too much coffee, tea and fizzy drinks; the caffeine will 'hype' you and make your thinking less clear. Eat healthily and regularly; your brain will benefit from the nutrients.

9. Exercise
Regular moderate exercise will boost your energy, clear your mind and reduce any feelings of stress. Try out some yoga, tai chi or relaxation techniques. They will help to keep you feeling calm and balanced, improve your concentration levels and help you to sleep better.

10. Develop a realistic timetable
This will enable you to track and monitor your progress. Make sure you allow time for fun and relaxation so that you avoid burning out.